Location: Boones Mill, Virginia, United States
Healing Strides of Virginia is a nonprofit equine-assisted services organization located in Boones Mill, Virginia, offering therapeutic riding and a wide range of horse-centered therapies for individuals with physical, cognitive, emotional, and mental health challenges. The program is built around the mission of promoting wellness through safe, structured interaction with horses, helping participants improve confidence, coordination, emotional regulation, and overall quality of life.
This is a well-established and highly accredited program, founded in 1991 and recognized as a PATH International Premier Accredited Center. With decades of experience and a multidisciplinary team of certified instructors and licensed professionals, Healing Strides of Virginia provides comprehensive equine-assisted services that integrate therapeutic, educational, and mental health support.
About This Program
Healing Strides of Virginia offers a full spectrum of equine-assisted activities and therapies (EAAT), including therapeutic riding, equine-assisted learning, psychotherapy, and hippotherapy. Programs are designed to meet individual needs, allowing participants to develop physical skills, emotional resilience, and social connection through structured horse interaction.
The approach combines clinical expertise with experiential learning. Participants engage in both mounted and ground-based activities, supported by certified instructors and mental health professionals. The program emphasizes individualized goals, steady progress, and meaningful relationships between participants and horses.
Services Offered
• Therapeutic riding and horsemanship
• Equine-assisted learning (EAL)
• Equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP)
• Hippotherapy (physical, occupational, and speech support)
• Mental health, education, and coaching programs
• Veterans and first responders programs
• Youth development and life skills programs
• Ground-based equine activities and field trips
• Volunteer-supported programming
Who They Serve
Healing Strides of Virginia may be good for:
• Children
• Teens
• Adults
• Individuals with physical disabilities
• Individuals with cognitive or developmental conditions
• Participants with emotional or behavioral challenges
• Veterans and first responders
• Individuals seeking mental health support through equine therapy
• Participants working on confidence, coordination, or social skills
Facility and Setting
Healing Strides of Virginia is based on a 28-acre equestrian facility in Boones Mill, Virginia, featuring multiple pastures, paddocks, indoor and outdoor arenas, and dedicated buildings for mental health, learning, and coaching programs. The facility is designed specifically to support therapeutic riding and equine-assisted services in a structured and accessible environment.
The setting combines professional-grade infrastructure with a peaceful, nature-oriented atmosphere. It supports year-round programming and accommodates a wide range of therapeutic and educational activities, providing a balance between clinical care and a welcoming, community-focused environment.
What Makes Them Unique
Healing Strides of Virginia stands out for its high level of accreditation and multidisciplinary approach. As a PATH International Premier Accredited Center and a recognized leader in equine-assisted services, the program integrates therapeutic riding with mental health, education, and coaching services under one organization.
Another distinguishing feature is its depth and scale of programming. From veterans programs and youth development initiatives to advanced therapeutic services like hippotherapy and psychotherapy, Healing Strides offers a comprehensive model that addresses a wide range of participant needs while maintaining a strong standard of professional care.